Eligibility and Selection of ACS Scholars

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for a scholarship through the ACS Scholars Program, candidates must:

• Be African-American, Hispanic/Latino, or American Indian
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent U.S. resident
• Be a full-time student at a high school or accredited college, university, or community college
• Demonstrate high academic achievement in chemistry or science (Grade Point Average 3.0, "B" or better)
• Demonstrate financial need according to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form (FAFSA) and the Student Aid Report (SAR) form
• Be a graduating high school senior or college freshman, sophomore or junior intending to or already majoring in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering or a chemically-related science OR intending to or already pursuing a degree in chemical technology
• Be planning a career in the chemical sciences.

*Please note that students intending to enter Pre-Med programs or pursuing a degree in Pharmacy are not eligible for this scholarship.

Selection Process

The Selection Committee reviews all applications to determine the best overall applicants. The highest-rated students are selected as scholarship recipients.

Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic record, career objective, financial need, leadership ability, participation in school activities, and community service.

Award Amounts

The amount of each individual award depends upon the availability of funding, the number of scholarships awarded, and evidence of financial need. Scholarship recipients receive up to a maximum of $5,000 per year. Scholarship awards are renewable.

Distribution of Scholarships

All candidates who submit complete applications, including financial documentation, are notified of their status in early June. Scholarship funds are sent to the financial aid offices at the recipient’s college or university. Checks are issued twice yearly ― July and December ― and made payable to the award recipient and the school.